In a world where sustainability is no longer optional but essential, Dangote Cement South Africa is leading by example. Through bold investments in alternative fuels and artificial intelligence (AI), the company is not only producing high-quality cement but also reducing its carbon footprint — one innovative step at a time.
Alternative Fuels: From Waste to Energy
In 2022, the company launched its Alternative Fuels Resource Strategy, signalling a decisive shift away from fossil fuels. The centrepiece of this plan was the use of whole tyres as an energy source, addressing both waste management and energy security.
After obtaining the necessary licences for tyre storage and usage, Dangote installed an automated tyre feeding system at its plant. Fully commissioned in November 2024, the system significantly boosts the thermal substitution rate by safely and efficiently feeding larger volumes of tyres into the kiln calciner.
This is just the beginning. The company is actively working to expand the range of alternative fuels in the next financial year, ensuring a diversified and sustainable energy portfolio.
Harnessing AI for Smarter Cement Production
In April 2025, Dangote took another leap forward by deploying an AI-powered optimisation system at its Delmas milling plant. The system dynamically adjusts operational parameters to:
- Maximise mill output
- Reduce energy consumption
- Cut greenhouse gas emissions
This move strengthens the company’s decarbonisation roadmap, supporting year-on-year reductions in CO2 emissions in line with its 2030 targets.
Commitment Beyond Compliance
Dangote Cement South Africa’s initiatives go beyond regulatory requirements. They reflect a vision for the future of the cement industry: responsible, efficient, and resilient.
By integrating sustainability into every stage of operations, the company proves that innovation and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand, even in a hard-to-abate sector.
As Group CEO Mervyn Naidoo noted, the company’s mission is simple yet profound: to deliver strong cement for strong structures, while building a sustainable future for generations to come.
Bag by bag, Dangote Cement South Africa is rewriting the story of cement — from high emissions to high impact sustainability.
